8 Reasons Why I Don't Want Another Baby

As a mom/lifestyle blogger, I often get asked personal questions as people assume I am an open book. I don’t always want to share things that are super personal, but I feel like this is the right time to answer a question I get asked all the time – if I plan to have any more kids.

First, before I answer the question, let me just say that I truly believe this is a personal decision for every mom. We all have our own reasons for wanting more kids or not. But, we should also be careful about bombarding moms with personal questions that may make them uncomfortable such as “Are you going to try for a third so you can have a boy?” Really – it is no one’s business but your own.

However, since I have put myself out there and am confident in my choices, I am willing to answer this question: The answer is NO. No, I do not plan on having any more children, and I have my reasons why. Whether you agree with my reasons or not, that’s okay. We are each entitled to my opinion, but please, let’s remember to be kind to one another.

The Reasons I am Fine with Just Two

1. It’s too expensive.

Raising kids is crazy expensive! According to Time, “For a middle-income family to raise a child born in 2015 through the age of 17, the cost of rearing a child has hit $233,610.” That’s just ONE kid. When you factor in the cost of living (especially for New York families), that number is even higher. Child care, clothes, food, and the basics already cost a fortune, but then you have to factor in saving for college tuition.  I’m already looking at the cost of half a million to raise my two precious girls easily. Yikes!

2. Finding a work/life balance is hard enough already.

I strongly believe in maintaining a healthy work/life balance. As a mom who works full time and blogs full time with a husband who works full time, we have to prioritize our time to maintain our sanity. Our lives are already so busy with work and activities for our two girls that I cannot imagine squeezing in more time to take care of another kid.

3. I want more leisure time – not less.

Let’s face it – when we become parents, our leisure time drastically dwindles. Where we once were able to jet off and travel, it is much more complicated to do things like that when you have kids. Traveling with kids is tough! We still do it, but we are looking forward to the days when our girls are older and traveling is easier. If we have another child, we will have even less leisure time and longer to wait before we can return to having some of the adventures we had before.

4. We are not getting any younger.

While a lady never reveals her age, let’s just say I feel too old to have another kid. Even though more and more women are getting pregnant and having babies later in life, doctors label you a geriatric pregnancy if you are 35 or older. This is because once you hit that birthday, there are more risks.

5. We have no empty space.

Our 3 bedroom/3 bath house is just the right size for us. Actually, the house is perfect for a house of women – I get my own bathroom, and so does each girl. Lol! But, seriously, we don’t have any extra space for another kid. We already fill up our space, so we would have to move to a larger house if we had another kid.

6. I *hate* being pregnant.

I know some women absolutely love being pregnant, but I was not one of them. I hated being pregnant. With both girls, I had the worst morning sickness, and I’d really rather not go through that again. Sorry, not sorry for speaking my truth.

7. The world isn’t always a nice place.

Have you watched the news lately? The world is a scary place. I am already anxious about raising my daughters in this world, so I have a hard time thinking about bringing another child into this place. I know there is more good than bad, but it still scares me sometimes to think about what the world will look like in the future for my daughters.

8. We are happy and healthy.

Most importantly, I am happy with two happy and healthy girls. Sure, I miss the days when my girls were babies, but that doesn’t mean I feel the need to do it all over again. I love watching my daughters grow and enter new seasons of life. And, I can get my baby fix by cuddling my friends’ and families’ babies.

Things to Do in New York for Halloween with Your Family and Kids

Now that the Halloween season is upon us, I love to find family-friendly Halloween events in New York. This means I look for events that are not too spooky and are mostly geared at encouraging costumes, fun, and treats without too many tricks.

Part of the fun of having kids is that you get to celebrate Halloween all over again as an adult! My girls love any opportunity to dress up, and I love any excuse to celebrate festively. Honestly, there are so many fun, family-friendly Halloween events in New York that the hardest decision I have to make each year is deciding which ones to put on my family’s calendar.

Well, I have done my research and I am happy to share the Halloween events in New York my family is most looking forward to in 2018.

Boo at the Zoo

Photograph - Julie Larsen Maher

We absolutely love Boo at the Zoo held each weekend through October at the Bronx Zoo. The combination of zoo animals, Halloween decorations, trick-or-treat, and costumes make this event that cannot be missed by families! Add in a spooky hayride, pumpkin carving, and a costume parade and this event will have everyone in my family cheering “Happy Halloween!”

Annual Halloween Festival and Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest

Photograph: Jasmin Chang

Mark your calendars for October 27, 2018, for the super fun and silly Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest at the annual Halloween Festival at Fort Greene Park Conservatory. In addition to giggling at all the adorably costumed pups, your kids will have a blast since the festival also includes live music and other Halloween festivities.

Halloween Parade and Pumpkin Flotilla

Photograph: Filip Wolak

You know what is even better than a family-friendly Halloween event? A FREE family-friendly Halloween event! On October 28, 2018, from 4 PM – 7 PM, families can celebrate Halloween in Central Park (near the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center). In addition to the main event (the charming pumpkin flotilla), families can also listen to spooky stories, do some Halloween crafting, carve pumpkins, and march in a costume parade.

The Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze

Photograph: Jennifer Mitchell

Families must plan a trip to Hudson Valley, New York this fall season to experience The Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze running select dates from September 28th – November 24th. A quick explanation – this is the Halloween version of going to look at exquisite Christmas light displays. The long explanation – see over 7000 glowing, intricately carved pumpkins as well as seeing flying ghosts, Sleepy Hollow’s Headless Horseman, and stargazing in the pumpkin planetarium. It will be the highlight of the fall season for your family.

The Village Halloween Parade

Photograph: Filip Wolak

An event that both kids and families will enjoy on Halloween night (beginning around 7 PM) is the Annual Village Halloween Parade through Greenwich Village. Costumed families can march in the parade or view it as spectators. Want to look your best? 2018’s theme is I AM a Robot! Expect to see elaborate costumes and have some delightfully spooky fun with the family!

Which family-friendly Halloween events in New York are your favorites? Let me know in the comments!

How to Clean and Take Care of Light-Colored Shoes and Bags

Dior Saddle Bag

Ladies, why do we save up the money to purchase designer bags or shoes just to let them show wear and tear before the season is even over? If you are like me, you hate to see your most valued possessions lose their luster because of stains or scuff marks.

High-quality shoes and bags should be treated as investment pieces, but too often, we don’t take the steps we need to take care of them in the first place. I’m here today to help you out with some basic care and cleaning tips for light-colored shoes and bags.

Protect Your Valuables

First things first, you need to protect your valuable shoes and bags. You need to treat them with care! For instance, shoe horns and boot shapers were invented for a reason. These handy tools keep your precious shoes in great shape. The same concept applies to bags, too. If you are not using a bag, stuff it so that it maintains its shape in the offseason. Additionally, your designer bags come with dust bags for a reason – to protect the bags from dust. If you have a dust bag, then use it!

Take Prevention into Your Own Hands

If you have a pair of shoes or a bag that you absolutely love and hope will last for years, then you should invest in a protector spray. Protector sprays work to protect the material by creating a barrier against water and dirt. This is especially important for light-colored bags and shoes!

The Material Matters

I cannot emphasize this enough – the material matters! You will treat and clean leather very differently than you will suede. For example, you should avoid using water as the main cleaning agent for suede unless you want to damage your shoes or bag even more. Similarly, there are specific cleaning tools for different types of materials – i.e., suede protectors and leather protectors.

Read the Instructions

Next, after you have purchased care items, you should always read the labels and instructions. As I explained above, you should not use a suede cleaner on a leather item and vice versa. Additionally, some leather cleaners require water and others do not; therefore, it is important for you to read the instructions. If you want your shoes or bags to return to their original beauty, then follow the care instructions and cleaning product instructions.

Test a Small Area First

You should always test a small area first to be on the safe side. Some shoe polishes are designed to work with certain colors. Don’t make the mistake of applying a shoe polish designed for black shoes all over a light-colored pair of shoes. That would be a major shoe emergency!

Three Products I Recommend

You can google and find all sorts of home remedies for cleaning light colored shoes and bags. But, when it comes to my favorite possessions, I just don’t want to risk it. I’d rather not try to combine white vinegar and water and ruin my favorite pair of heels. Instead, I trust those in the shoe business to tell me how to clean and take care of my valuables. Below I am recommending three products for leather shoes which can also be used on leather purses. Even better – these products are designed to work on light-colored shoes and bags!

Apple Brand Leather Cleaner & Conditioner

The Apple Brand aims to preserve and restore leather – not to damage it. So, you can expect their products to be gentle. In addition to the cleaner, I love that the conditioner is easy to apply using a makeup sponge and works to moisturize and leave the leather feeling smooth.

Meltonian Boot and Shoe Cream Polish

As it is available in multiple colors, it is easy to find a polish that will match the item you love. The cream works to clean and make shoes return to their original glory. It goes on easily, and all you need to do is buff the shoes with a soft cloth.

Saphir Medaille D'or 1925 Pate De Luxe Neutral Wax Shoe Polish

Unlike dark shoe polishes, this one is wax-based, clear and designed to be used on neutral or odd-colored shoes. For those looking for a polish that does not have to match various colored shoes, this is an excellent choice.

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15 Ways to Make Extra Income on the Side at Home

Money makes the world go ‘round. I guess the saying really is “love makes the world go ‘round,” but really, who are we kidding? I don’t know any moms who think they have enough money. It doesn’t matter if they are stay at home moms or working moms, there seems always to be a need for extra money.

On top of all the money you need simply to take care of your family, you need some extra to be able to enjoy life with your family. Dinners out? Vacations? Cute outfits, shoes, and purses? Those things cost money! And that is not counting the money you spend on your kids! Every activity your kid signs up for costs money.

So, it makes sense that moms are looking for ways to make extra income on the side. Every little bit helps. If you are looking for some ways to pad your wallet, I’ve researched fifteen real ways moms are bringing in a little extra income on the side at home.

1. Get paid to take surveys.

People have been saying this for years, but it really is legit. You can get paid to make money completing online surveys. You won’t make a ton, but the more surveys you do, the more money you will make. Check out Swag Bucks and Survey Club to get started.

2. Monetize a blog.

Many moms have found success with blogging about the things they know. If you do it correctly, you can monetize your blog and end up making a decent amount of money. You monetize your blog by working with sponsors, using affiliate marketing, and placing ads in your blog.

3. Freelance on the side.

Whether you are working or staying at home, consider freelancing. Take your skillset and use it from home. For instance, Upwork is a freelancing platform for everything from proofreading to graphic design.

4. Act as a virtual assistant.

A virtual assistant is someone who works as an online assistant rather than an assistant in an office. The job tasks will vary, but virtual assistants typically use the internet and their computers for planning and scheduling events for their clients.

5. Be a tutor.

Even without a degree, you can work as an online tutor. For example, some companies hire individuals to work as English-speaking tutors. These individuals speak English as their first language and have practice conversations with an English-language student.

6. Sell goods.

Are you crafty? If so, join the Etsy community and operate your own online storefront selling the products you make in your own home.

7. Host an Old-Fashioned Lemonade Stand.

While you won’t necessarily make a ton of money, you can make a little extra. Most importantly, this is a great way to introduce your children to finances. They will love participating, and you can teach them about making money.

8. Shop for others.

Love shopping? You can shop for others and make money! For example, many moms are having success being a grocery shopper through companies such as Instacart and Shipt.

9. Sell your stuff.

Have stuff that you no longer need or want? Sell it on an online marketplace such as eBay.

10. Get hired to enter data or transcribe notes.

If you are good with computers and secretarial tasks, you may want to look for online data entry or transcription jobs. Unlike desk jobs in an office place, these jobs are remote.

11. Work as an online travel agent.

Do you have a passion for travel? If so, look into becoming an online travel agent. There are women who have started their own online travel agencies and women who have found success working with larger online travel agencies such as MEI-Travel.

12. Manage social media accounts.

Are you a social media guru? Then, you are in luck! Social media management is in demand! These individuals manage social media accounts for businesses.

13. Love pets? Try pet sitting.

Another way to pad your wallet is to be a pet sitter or a pet walker. Services like Rover make it easier than ever before to make it happen.

14. Watch kids out of your home.

Need to make money doing something you already know how to do? Try babysitting at random times or begin keeping a child in your home regularly.

15. Rent your space.

Another newer option is to rent your space. Airbnb's are soaring in popularity, and you can make some extra income just by allowing people to book a room in your home.

Embrace Your Talents

The ideal way to make extra income is to embrace your talents. Find a way to do what you love from your home. While these dream jobs don’t always bring tons of money, they will bring great satisfaction. This is especially important if you are doing another job on the side.

Hussle, mamas! You can do it!

Where We Go When We Need to Leave the House

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I firmly believe your home should be a sanctuary for your family. It should feel safe and full of love at all times. But, let’s be real. As much as I love my house, there are times I have to get out of it. I’m sure my fellow working moms understand this feeling. You cannot just go to work and go home each day. You must find ways to see the rest of the world!

That’s why as the temperatures cool and before the frigid winter weather arrives, I like to take advantage of the many outdoor options in New York City. There are so many great things for kids to do in NYC – and many of them are outdoors. A simple outdoor excursion is all we need to feel refreshed. Plus, a little Vitamin D is healthy for everyone!

If you are a fellow NYC working mom or just visiting New York for a trip with kids, here are some of my family’s favorite outdoor places in NY.

Explore Central Park

Of course, I have to include Central Park on my list of favorites! Not only is it one of the country’s most iconic parks, but it is also a great place for families in NYC! Central Park has tons of places to explore. For example, it has over fifty monuments, sculptures, and fountains. You can plan an entire scavenger hunt just for those structures. Add in bridges and wildlife, and the park feels magical.

Plus, Central Park is home to 21 playgrounds! My girls have some they love more than others, so I encourage to explore the park’s various playgrounds to find the ones that your kids like the most.

Check out the views at Hunters Point

Hunter’s Point Park is a newer park located in Long Island City. We love visiting this park because it offers amazing views of the NYC skyline. Plus, since it is a waterfront park, it also offers scenic waterfront views. It also has playgrounds that my girls love.

Take in the Scenery at Prospect Park

Prospect Park is a super family-friendly and beautiful park with playgrounds and more. It is home to one of NYC’s enchanting carousels, as well as a zoo with real-life animals. Prospect Park also has a skating rink in the winter, a children’s garden, and free kids programming at the Audubon Center.

Spend Time with the Animals at NYC Zoos

Both Central Park and Prospect Park have zoos that are open to the public. My girls love visiting zoos and seeing the animals up close. It is one of my family’s favorite ways to spend an afternoon. Plus, the fall is a great time to visit the zoo because the animals are more active than other seasons of the year.

And if the weather doesn’t cooperate…

If we need to get out of the house and it is raining or snowing, we just head to one of the nearest indoor play areas. My girls think Chuck E Cheese is the most fun place ever. I can put up with the noise and excitement because I know it makes them happy – and sleepy. Time Out also has a guide to other great ideas for indoor NYC play spaces if you are looking for somewhere new.

Why I Don’t Feel Guilty for Prioritizing Me Time

Mom friends, let’s be honest. Prioritizing me time, as a mom, feels wrong sometimes. We don’t talk about it, but we all want it. But, so often we are made to feel like it is wrong to want “me time.” I’m here to say, “No more!”

My life is busy – super busy. On top of taking care of my adorable daughters, I work full time. My days are crammed back, and it sometimes feels like I have no time left in the day to check everything off my to-do list – let alone anything just for me.

But, I have learned the importance of self-care, and I am here today to tell you why you need to start prioritizing me time as well.

Why I Put Myself First

You know the saying, “If momma isn’t happy, nobody’s happy”? As moms, we know this is true! Moms are typically the ones who hold things together in their homes and family lives. When we are tired or upset, it changes the atmosphere in our homes. And, this busy working mom is the most ill when I am tired and have not taken time for myself.

I love my daughters. They are my greatest joy! But, even though I adore everything about them, sometimes I just need some time away from them. I need time to be myself – and not just “mom.” And, when I do take time for myself, I feel refreshed and renewed, and I can go back to being the energetic, loving mom that I usually am.

Think of it this way – the safety message on an airplane always tells you to put the oxygen mask on yourself first. The same thing is true for parenting. Before you can take care of your kids, you must take care of yourself.

Take a Few Minutes Every Day

So how do I manage to squeeze in some me time when my life is so busy between work, family, and other commitments? I get it done by taking a few minutes to myself every day. Self-care does not have to be a full spa day (although that would be amazing!). Daily self-care can just be a few minutes you take to yourself to do something just for you that brings you joy.

Other Ways I Practice Self-Care as a Busy Working Mom

To give you some ideas to get started, here are some things I do that are just for me:

Start my day quietly with a cup of coffee.

Mornings are not my favorite, but Dunkin Donuts coffee makes me like them a little bit more. Starting the day by having a nice cup of coffee helps me get ready to face whatever lies ahead.

Spend time outdoors.

I like to sit in Central Park before I go to work. This gives me a few minutes of quiet between the rush of getting the girls ready for school and before I head into work mode.

Get a massage.

When I am feeling stressed or tense, I love to get a massage. I’ve found that even a short thirty-minute massage does wonders when it comes to making me feel more relaxed and like myself again.

Connect with friends.

It takes effort to keep up with your friendships after you have kids – especially when you are juggling a career. But, friendships are so important! Friends remind you of who you were before kids, and the time you spend with them is often the best therapy in the world.

Drink a glass of wine.

I look forward to ending my day with a nice glass of wine to take the edge off. For me, it signifies the end of the daily rush and the start of the relaxation.

Exercise.

As the Elle Woods says in the classic Legally Blonde, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” Add in Premiere Protein and I am good to go.

Pursue my hobbies.

It is easy to push your previous hobbies to the side when your life gets busy after having kids, but it is more important than ever before to do what you love. I love fashion, so I continue to pursue it in my everyday life.

Unplug.

I love my cell phone just as much as the next mom, but I have found sometimes the best self-care involves simply unplugging for a bit and having a conversation face-to-face.

When I Look Good, I Feel Good

Finally, I do not feel guilty about prioritizing myself, especially when it comes to my appearance. I’m not saying you have to look your absolute best every day – that’d be crazy! But, for me, when I look good, I feel good. So, I am intentional about the amount of time I need to get ready each day and what I will wear.

What are some things you do to practice self-care?

Staying Healthy and Happy with Zarbee’s Naturals Honey Cough Soothers + Immune Support*

This post is sponsored by Zarbee's Naturals. The content and opinions expressed here are that of Inrachelshoes.

As the school year begins, I like to have everything we need to stay healthy on hand. But, with young kids, I have to make important decisions about what products we use to feel our best. I want to give my girls the very best – especially when it comes to things that go into their little bodies.

That’s the main reason why I love Zarbee’s Naturals. Zarbee’s Naturals handpicks its carefully-sourced, wholesome ingredients, ensuring only the best for my family. Knowing it was founded by a pediatrician, Zarbee’s Naturals offers products for the whole family to enjoy, that you can trust without all the extra additives or artificial flavors.

Taking Care of Mom First

As all moms know, you have to take care of yourself in order to take care of your little ones, so I am always looking for something I can use to take care of myself. Zarbee’s Naturals 96% Honey Cough Soothers stand out because they can be used as needed since they are made with simple, wholesome ingredients to soothe coughs associated with hoarseness, dry throat, and irritants*.  Even better, these Honey Cough Soothers also help support your immune system with key ingredients like Vitamin C, Zinc and Echinacea. Since I had some of the Zarbee’s Naturals 96% Honey Cough Soothers + Immune Support* on hand, I tried one and was delighted by the taste and the way it helped soothe my throat.

Taking Care of My Kids

It is so frustrating for a mom when your kids are not feeling their best, and they are not willing to take anything that will help them. But, with these in my purse, I was hopeful I would be able to get one past my daughter’s locked lips. Fortunately, the product is designed with kids in mind and is delicious mixed berry flavor. My daughter didn’t fight me when it came to trying one of the purple soothers.

This is especially great news for parents of picky kids. It is a relief to have a kid-safe product when they have dry throats or an irritating tickle. I fully intend to keep them in my purse for quick access year-round. 

Why I Am Recommending This Product

As a working mom, it is critical that I stay healthy. I have to stay on top of things at my job and at home. And, when I take care of myself, my daughters notice. I want to teach them to take care of themselves as well. That’s why I love how Zarbee’s Naturals has designed wholesome products for both parents and children. When my daughters see me use a Cough Soother when I sound hoarse, they’ll hopefully be more willing to ask for one when they need it.

Keep Zarbee’s Natural 96% Honey Cough Soothers on hand to help keep your family healthy and happy all school year long. I encourage my followers to add Zarbee’s Naturals to their bag this year. 

Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet – From a Mom Who Knows

Eek! I recently learned Olivia has flat feet! I know I am not the only mom dealing with this issue as it is actually pretty common in kids. If your kid is one of the 44% of a 3-to-6-year old child with flat feet, then rest assured you are not alone.

Fortunately, for most children, the problem corrects itself as children grow. However, if the problem is not addressed, it can lead to more serious problems in the future. As a mom, I want to be sure I am doing all I can to make sure my daughter starts off on the right foot (sorry – I couldn’t resist a foot pun!).

So, I have done my homework to find out all I need to know about flat feet (or pes planus – a flattening of the arches) and how to treat it.

What Causes Flat Feet in Kids

According to the Mayo Clinic, “A flat foot is normal in infants and toddlers, because the foot's arch hasn't yet developed. Most people's arches develop throughout childhood, but some people never develop arches.”

While the condition is common, the problems occur when little ones never develop arches. In these cases, children may experience pain, improper walking, and poor foot development. Ouch! Not at all things I want my sweet daughter to have to face.

Do’s and Don’ts for Kids with Flat Feet

Thankfully, most kids with flat feet do not need to have anything extreme done to help them overcome this issue. However, there are few simple do’s and don’ts we can try as parents.

• Do speak to your pediatrician. A pediatrician will be able to evaluate your child and make recommendations.

• Do take your pediatrician’s advice, such as pursuing physical therapy.

• Do have your child wear inserts (especially your doctor recommends a custom orthotic device).

• Do teach your child to rest and stretch.

• Do temporarily modify your child’ activities, so he/she isn’t standing or walking for long periods of time if your child is experiencing pain as a result of pain feet.

• Do invest in supportive footwear. (I’m listing the best brands of supportive footwear below!)

• Don’t wear shoes without support.

• Don’t wear shoes without an arc (such as Converse or Vans).

• Don’t try to save money by buying lower quality shoes.

• Don’t buy shoes without having your child try them on. If your child is wearing a shoe that does not fit, it will only make the problem worse.

7 Shoe Brands to Invest in for Kids with Flat Feet

When it comes to giving your kid the best shot at living with flat feet, the best thing you can do is invest in great, supportive footwear. It will be worth it in the end! To give you some ideas, I have identified the seven best shoe brands for kids with flat feet.

Asics – They offer a great selection of supportive and colorful sneakers for toddlers on up.

Saucony – Their kid’s athletic shoe line begins with baby sizes and are all designed to offer support.

New Balance – They are known for their supportive athletic shoes for adults, but their shoes are also great for toddlers and preschoolers with flat feet.

Robeez – This brand is recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) because their shoes are designed to help healthy foot development.

Stride Rite – They make high-quality children’s shoes designed to encourage healthy movement for babies up to big kids.

Crocs – Kids love crocs, and their arch design and ability to contour to the shape of the foot make them stand out.

Salt Water Sandals – If you are looking for sandals for your child with flat feet, I recommend Salt Water sandals. These high-quality sandals are made of genuine leather and come in a variety of colors.

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7 Fall 2018 Shoe Trends I Love

Gianvito Rossi Pumps

Labor Day is over, which for fashionistas across the New York and the rest of the country, means it is time to get a new fall wardrobe! As a major shoe lover, I am so excited to have an excuse to shop the latest trends and reinvent my fall shoe collection.

And, fall of 2018 promises to be an exciting year. While I am already ready to sip my pumpkin-spice latte and bury my face in a scarf, I am most excited about the trends that are showing up in fashion! This year’s trends have a dose of nostalgia and freshness. We’re bringing back some old favorites, but we’re updating them to reflect today’s styles. I love it!

To help you prepare to be one of the most stylish moms in NYC, I’ve highlighted what are sure to be the biggest shoe trends of 2018 as well as showcasing some of my personal favorites. Even better – you can shop my post to order your favorites with the just click of the mouse.

Slouchy Boots Pack a Statement

Fall means boots – and this year brings back the blocked heel boots that we all love. To add in a punch, slouchy boots are stylish and sophisticated – and they are anything but slouchy! This style is versatile and can go from day to night easily. My picks:

Marc Fisher LTD Unana Bootie

Tory Burch Brooke Slouchy Knee-High Boot

Western Boots are Not Going Out of Style

We all know that Western boots are never going to disappear, but they do come and go in the fashion scene. This year’s spin on western boots includes simple designs with lower heels. You should expect to find sleeker styles with less pointy toes. My picks:

Saint Laurent Western Leather Ankle Boots

Chloe Annika Split Shaft Western Boot

Dad Sneakers are Back

Yes – you read that right. Dad sneakers have hit the runways, so be on the lookout for this modern take on thick-soled sneakers. These retro designs are a fun throwback to the past, and like past dad sneakers, they are either colorful or plain. It’s the sole and silhouette that matters. PS. Moms can pull these off! My picks:

Balenciaga Triple S Retro Sneaker

Jeffrey Campbell WiFi Sneaker

Animal Prints are Fierce

Animal prints are back, and they are fierce! As most savvy fashionistas know, a great animal print shoe is a great way to pack a statement. Trust me – every mom needs a shoe that represents her wild side. My picks:

Linea Paolo Posh II Pointy Toe Pump 

Christian Louboutin Moulamax Genuine Calf Hair Bootie

Combat Boots are All the Rage

You don’t have to be a rock star to rock a pair of combat boots. This year’s styles are similar to the styles we remember from our younger years. But, now we know how to wear them in a trendy, stylish way. My picks:

Fiveseventyfive Stud-Embellished Leather Combat Boots

Valentino Garavani Lock Leather Combat Ankle Boots

Shoes that Sparkle

As a girl who loves to sparkle, I am thrilled with all the glitter and jeweled shoes hitting the scene in 2018! Everything from pumps to sneakers is getting the royal jeweled treatment. My picks:

​​​​​​​Walter De Silva Women's Raff Glitter Pumps

Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Jewel Pump

Gucci Flashtrek Jewel Sneaker at Nordstrom

Brown is the New Black

This summer, we saw tons of women embraced more tans with boho fashion, and that trend will not end now that fall has arrived. Make sure you have a great pair of brown shoes in your fall wardrobe to balance out all the black.

Gianvito Rossi Martis Leather Combat Boots

Birkenstock Boston Suede & Shearling Clogs

A Nickelodeon All-Inclusive Luxury Vacation Perfect for Kids and Their Parents

My family recently had the opportunity to vacation at the Nick Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Punta Cana, itself, is a beautiful beach destination. When I learned that there is now a Nickelodeon-themed all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, I knew it was a perfect vacation destination for my family. And, I wasn’t wrong.

You may hear the words “Nickelodeon” and “all-inclusive” and think you’ve heard incorrectly. You didn’t. The combination of Nickelodeon fun and all-inclusive go together better than you can dream. I’m here today to tell you all the ways Nickelodeon has discovered the secret to family vacations.

The Resort Itself

Since the Nick Resort is family-friendly and Nickelodeon-themed, you will instantly be taken back to childhood with its playful accommodations. It has all the standards of regular all-inclusive resorts, but the colors are brighter, the decorations are sillier, and the activities are wilder. For instance, the high rollers can stay in a replica of Spongebob’s pineapple under the sea.

Now, keep in mind, the resort is designed for luxury travelers. In other words, while the décor may bring out the kid in you that does not mean you will not receive the finest accommodations. The rooms are lovely, and the resort has everything you could possibly need to make you comfortable. Plus, it is located on the white sandy beach of Punta Cana offer endless scenic views. We loved having the combination of playfulness and luxury in the same setting – it was perfect for our family.

Yummy Food and Delicious Drinks

My family loves all-inclusive vacations because all the food and drinks are included. At Nick Resort, the all-inclusive dining options were fantastic. There were plenty of kid-friendly options for my girls, but the resort also had gourmet restaurants that kept our adult bellies happy. They even have an adult-only restaurant!

We also loved all the free drinks. As soon as we arrived, our girls were treated to a slime smoothie while my husband and I were given a glass of sparkling champagne. Yes, please. The all-inclusive food and alcohol options were a major plus for parents. After a busy day at the beach and the pool, it was wonderful to know we could enjoy fine dining and a glass (or two) of wine each evening.

Play Like a Nick Kid

We spent most of our time at Aqua Nick. Aqua Nick is a huge waterpark with water slides, splash pads, spray grounds, and a lazy river. Our girls had the time of their lives! They splashed and played for hours. Plus, the pool area had the cutest little sun loungers just for kids.

My girls also loved seeing their favorite Nickelodeon characters in real life. Seeing Dora and the dogs from Paw Patrol at the resort was enough to leave smiles on their faces all day long. But, what really gave them the giggles was seeing people get slimed. Do you remember Nickelodeon slimings? The Nick Resort does mass slimings every day at Aqua Nick.

Act Like an Adult

While the Nick Resort certainly caters to kids, it does not stop with them. Adults are treated like esteemed guests as well. In addition to the adult-only restaurant and adult beverages, they also offer the Just Kidding Kids Club. The all-inclusive kids club includes supervised daily activities for kids 4-12 years old. This means you can drop your kids off to have some fun while you sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful views – or head to the gorgeous Vassa Spa or scenic infinity pool.

My family loved our vacation to the Nick Resort in the Dominican Republic. Nick Resort has learned the secret of combining family fun and luxury.